The latest Rod Barajas MLB and fantasy baseball news

Although veteran C Rod Barajas has not ruled out a return to the diamond for 2014, sources indicate he has agreed to manage the San Diego Padres' Rookie League team in Arizona. Barajas last played with the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2013.

Arizona Diamondbacks C Rod Barajas' minor league deal will be worth $800,000 if he makes the major league roster. C Wil Nieves will also make $800,000 if he makes the team, but it's not fully guaranteed. If the team cuts ties with Nieves before opening day, they'll owe him $200,000.

The Pittsburgh Pirates declined C Rod Barajas' $3.5 million option for the 2013 season Wednesday, Oct. 31, making him a free agent. The team will look to re-sign him to a reduced salary. C Mike McKenry will be given the chance to win the starting job at catcher next season.

Pittsburgh Pirates C Rod Barajas is willing to re-sign with the team for less money if the team declines not to pick up his $3.5 million option for the 2013 season. Barajas is earning $4 million this year. "I've gotten to know the guys pretty well," Barajas said. "When you get a feel for a rotation, it's always nice to come back and not go through a huge learning curve. It would be fun to come back."

Pittsburgh Pirates SP Jeff Karstens is 3-0 with a 0.82 ERA in his last three starts with C Mike McKenry behind the plate. Karstens allowed four runs in seven innings in his lone start with C Rod Barajas doing the catching. It wouldn't be surprising to see McKenry catch Karstens down the road.